Growing up, we’ve always heard the phrase ‘Prevention is better than cure.’ This holds true for just about anything, especially your pet dog getting bitten by a mosquito. Treatment for a mosquito bite costs time and money that can otherwise be avoided through preventative measures.
Remove Stagnant Water
Stagnant or still water is one of the biggest breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The water surface acts as a moist surface for female mosquitoes to lay eggs and hatch them into larvae.
When you water plants or clean out your garage, make sure all the water is dried up. Similarly, after showering, make sure no water remains on any surfaces. Wipe floors thoroughly to prevent still water.
Get Screens for Doors and Windows
In humid weather, mosquitoes will rush inside your house as soon as you open a door or window. In order to enjoy the good weather and simultaneously prevent mosquitoes from entering your house, attach aluminum or wood screens to your doors and windows for extra protection.
Be Careful about Timing
If you’re taking your dog out on a walk, you may want to avoid the daytime due to the heat and sun exposure. However, that is exactly what mosquitoes are doing. They come out during the evening and night time as they risk getting dehydrated in the sun. Thus, if you live in a neighborhood with a high concentration of mosquitoes, make sure to walk your dog before sunset.
Use Mosquito Repellent
You can find a good mosquito repellent for dogs from your local pet shop or even create a DIY repellent at home. This further minimizes the risk of a mosquito bite even if the insect is present in your home.
Another alternative is to use an indoor insect trap. UV lights attract mosquitoes and can be used as traps. You can find mosquito traps on Amazon or at your local electronics store.
Walk Your Dog in a Clean Environment
This is generally not an issue as most people walk their dogs in the street. However, if you live in an area with a lot of greenery, it is best to be careful after it rains as the soil gets damp. Again, wet soil serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes so it is best to walk your dog away from it.
Get Heartworm Treatment for Your Dog
Heartworm is a very common parasitic disease found in street animals. This is why it is very important for pet owners to visit the vet regularly and make sure their pet gets the proper treatment against heartworm, preferably on an annual basis.
This treatment also minimizes the risks of mosquito bites in case your dog does get bitten. It is important because mosquitoes are very common insects in areas with a humid atmosphere and no matter how many precautions you take, it may be inevitable that your dog will get bitten. Thus, heartworm treatment can prove to have double the benefits for your dog.